THE “BALCONY”
In Lasauvage, one building stands out particularly among the rows of small miners’ houses: the ‘Balcony’. Its name comes from the balcony that runs along the façade on the first floor. While the ‘Balcony’ is quite spectacular due to its imposing dimensions, the idea behind its construction is rather unusual.
In the 1880s, Lasauvage experienced significant development thanks to the impetus of a visionary man. This figure, whose influence has left an indelible mark on Lasauvage, is Count Fernand de Saintignon (1846 – 1921), a French ironmaster, industrialist, and scientist. Through marriage, he acquired numerous mines in Lasauvage, thus changing the destiny of this village. Lasauvage had one of the country’s first steelworks, but the Count decided to focus on mining. Indeed, he had a large factory in Longwy (F) for ore processing. In 1907, Count Saintignon had drilling done in the town of Les Émaux, hoping to find a coal deposit there. In reality, he discovered a mineral spring with very pure water and a temperature of 24°C. As a savvy businessman, the Count knew how to take advantage of the water. On the one hand, the water was marketed in bottles (Eau de Récollets), and on the other hand, the Count had a thermal establishment built, fueled by the spring.
Are you wondering about the connection with Lasauvage?
The Count had the ‘Balcony’ built as a hotel to accommodate spa guests. This initiative may seem intriguing at first glance, considering the context of this village. Indeed, Lasauvage had dedicated itself to intensive mining activity, which brought various disadvantages such as noise, pollution, and alteration of the landscape, all factors that could disrupt the tranquility sought by spa guests in search of peace and well-being. Faced with this industrial landscape, the idea of establishing a thermal hotel may seem paradoxical. Count Saintignon had an innovative vision in transforming Lasauvage, offering an alternative to the laborious life of miners and diversifying the activities of the region. He planned rooms, lounges, a restaurant, and a banquet hall. Unfortunately, the ambitious project to transform the ‘Balcony’ into a spa hotel remains unfinished due to the outbreak of the First World War.
Today, the building has been converted into several apartments, and unfortunately, few traces of Count Saintignon’s inspiring vision remain.
In a future article, discover more about other achievements of this significant French industrialist.